Media Release

New videos to assist hearing impaired in digital TV switch

New Australian Sign Language (AUSLAN) videos aimed at helping the deaf and hearing impaired community switch from analog to digital only free-to air TV were released today by the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy.

Releasing the videos as part of Hearing Awareness Week, Senator Conroy said the 16 videos provide practical information such as how to connect a set-top box, how to record digital TV and what government programs are available to assist households make the switch.

Each video has an accompanying fact sheet that includes more technical information.

“The Gillard Government wants to ensure all members of the community receive the information they need about the switch to digital TV which is happening progressively across Australia between 2010 and 2013,” Senator Conroy said.

“It is important all Australians have access to information to assist them in making the switch to digital and in particular members of our community who are deaf or are hearing impaired. Making these new AUSLAN videos is a critical part of achieving that goal.”

“The Digital Switchover will be completed in all parts of Australia by the end of 2013 with the majority of households already having made the switch.”

The Deafness Forum of Australia were partners in producing the videos and DFA Chair, Mr David Brady, said it was encouraging to see the Australian Government meeting the needs of those with hearing loss in this way.

“It’s important that all Australians have clear and concise information on what impact changes to government policy or program implementation might have on their lives. It’s even more important to ensure this material is made available in an accessible way,” Mr Brady said.

“We applaud the Australian Government and its Digital Switchover Taskforce and the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy for this excellent initiative; and encourage other government agencies to follow this excellent model for communicating with those who are deaf or have a hearing impairment.”

The Digital Switchover Taskforce is responsible on behalf of the Australian Government for coordinating and overseeing Australia's transition from analog to digital television.

The Australian Sign Language videos are available from the Digital Ready website www.digitalready.gov.au or can be requested through the National Call Centre on 1800 20 10 13.

Notes to Editors

• The Digital Switchover Taskforce will be present at the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy stand at the Communications Expo at Parliament House in Canberra during Hearing Awareness Week.
• Deafness Forum is the peak national body representing Australians with hearing loss - those who are deaf, have a hearing impairment, are DeafBlind, or have a chronic condition of the ear.
• The AUSLAN videos can be accessed at: http://www.digitalready.gov.au/info-centre/Video-tutorials.aspx
• For more information of the Digital Switchover visit www.digitalready.gov.au or call 1800 20 10 13.

Date: 23 August, 2011
Contact: Lyall Johnson, 0408 258 457